Where To Stay In Krabi – Best Neighborhoods & Hotels 2022
Planning a trip to Krabi? As one of the most beautiful beach destinations in Southeast Asia, you simply can’t pass it up.
To help you plan your Thailand vacation, we’ve created an extensive guide that will show you exactly where to stay during your first time in Krabi no matter what experience you’re looking for.
Overall Best Place To Stay In Krabi
If you’re a first-timer or looking to experience the best area in Krabi and you’re wondering where to stay, you can’t go wrong with the Ao Nang neighborhood.
In Ao Nang, you’ll find great restaurants, cheap (yet fancy) accommodations, white sandy beaches, and a gateway to adventure. Located within walking distance of Tonsai Beach and a short boat ride away from Railay Beach, you’ll be able to explore all of the surrounding areas with ease.
To read more about Ao Nang and which accommodation options are the best in the area, click here to jump down to our Ao Nang section.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Budget Travelers
In general, Thailand is a dream destination for budget travelers. It’s common knowledge that northern Thailand is more affordable than the islands, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find awesome budget-friendly options close to the best beaches.
If you’re on your way to Krabi and you want to find a place to stay that won’t break the bank, look no further than Krabi Town.
Krabi Town is a small village 30 minutes by car from Ao Nang and Railay Beach. You can find hostels in the town for less than $10 per night, which is quite a bit cheaper than other areas in Krabi.
For more about Krabi Town and which hotels/guesthouses you should stay in during your visit, click here to jump down to the Krabi Town section.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Adventure Travelers
Any climbers, divers, or kayakers? How about any extreme sports enthusiasts? If that’s you, you’ll want to stay in one of three areas: Railay, Tonsai, or Phi Phi Island.
Railay Beach is famous for an uncommon extreme sport called deep-water soloing. Imagine rock climbing without a harness and when you fall, you fall into the ocean. Crazy, right?
Railay is also home to great kayaking spots, swimming holes, hiking trails in the national park, and caves. Whatever adventure you’re looking for, you’ll likely find it here.
Tonsai is another great place to stay in Krabi. It is one of the best locations in Krabi for rock climbing, so if that’s up your alley, this is where you want to stay.
And the final place to consider for adventure travel in Thailand is Koh Phi Phi Don. From scuba diving to cliff jumping to hiking, you can find it all in this area of Krabi.
Jump down to the Railay Beach section by clicking here. To read more about Tonsai, jump down to that section by clicking here. And for Koh Phi Phi accommodation options and additional information, click here.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Backpackers
Tons of backpackers flock to the Thailand beaches. And why wouldn’t they? It’s the perfect place to escape reality, meet new friends, and save money.
The best neighborhoods in Krabi for backpackers are Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Krabi Town.
Youth hostels line the streets of Ao Nang and reggae bars rock the night away at the local pubs. This is also where you can hop on a long-tail boat and visit one of the many pristine islands in the area.
Railay Beach isn’t much different, but unlike Ao Nang, you won’t have to take a boat to the best beaches in Krabi since they’ll be out your front door.
Last but not least, we can’t forget to mention Krabi Town when we’re talking about backpackers.
This central location isn’t quite as touristy as other areas, so you’ll definitely get a break from the demanding crowds.
For Ao Nang accommodation suggestions and detailed information, click here to jump down to that section. For Railay Beach, click here. And for Krabi Town, click here.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Families
Even though Krabi is a hot spot for backpackers and budget-travelers, it also appeals to a different group of people: families.
Krabi, Thailand is one of the best and most adventurous places you can bring your kids. They will love the limestone spires bursting out of the ocean and the fun snorkeling opportunities.
But where should you stay in Krabi if you’re traveling with your family?
Ao Nang and Ko Lanta are two popular beach destinations in Krabi that do a great job catering to families.
Ao Nang is central to everything, so you’ll have spas, boat tours, snorkeling excursions, and so much more at your finger tips. This reduces your need to plan.
On the other hand, Ko Lanta is much quieter than Ao Nang. The island boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world and the majority of resorts are family-friendly with free parking.
More accommodation information on Ao Nang can be found by clicking here. For Ko Lanta information and recommendations, click here to jump down to that section.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Couples
I also feel that Ao Nang is the place to be for couples. Whether you’re in Krabi for your honeymoon or simply to celebrate life, you can have the best of both worlds in Ao Nang: quiet resorts and endless activities.
You’ll have some of the best restaurants in Krabi within steps of your hotel and they even have a small nightlife scene if you’re interested in grabbing drinks.
To jump down to Ao Nang hotel recommendations and additional info, click here.
Where To Stay In Krabi That’s Off-The-Beaten-Path
I get it.. Thailand can be overwhelming, especially during peak season. Unfortunately, it is no longer a secret dream destination (was it ever?) and we must battle the crowds, especially in the Krabi province.
But by staying on the offshore islands Ko Pu and Ko Jum, you’ll escape the crowds and even escape reality for a bit.
Relish in the warm sunsets that paint the sky or an ice cold Singha beer in the hot sand along the shores of Ko Pu and Ko Jum.
If you want hiking trails that aren’t overcrowded with tourists, Ko Pu and Ko Jum are the islands to aim for.
Find out where to stay and what to do by skipping down to our Ko Pu and Ko Jum section by clicking here.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Nightlife
There’s no debate about it. Phi Phi Island takes the cake for the biggest party scene in Krabi. In fact, it’s so much of a party destination that it often turns off visitors looking to enjoy its beautiful scenery and epic dive spots.
If you want fire shows on the beach and buckets of booze, this is where you need to stay in Krabi.
I also want to briefly mention that Railay Beach has its own vibrant nightlife reputation. Just because you aren’t on an islands doesn’t mean you can’t party like you’re on one!
Jump down to our Railay Beach section by clicking here.
Where To Stay In Krabi For The Best Beaches
If you’re brave enough to take on the crowds of Australians, you can find the best beaches in Krabi along the shores of Koh Phi Phi (Phi Phi Island).
Luckily, there are some secret beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don that still fly under the radar. Check out our post where we share the locations of these quiet beaches on Phi Phi Island.
Note: Koh Phi Phi Leh, the other half of the Phi Phi Islands, is home to Maya Bay. This bay was featured in The Beach starring Leonardo Dicaprio and it’s one of the most well-known beaches in the world.
In 2021, Maya Bay is currently closed for restoration. It is undergoing one of the most extensive natural rehabilitation projects in the world. Pretty cool, huh?
In addition to the well-known Phi Phi Island beaches, I believe that the beaches along the shores of Railay are also top-notch.
In order to really appreciate these beaches, we highly recommend getting there early. The earlier you arrive, the more time you’ll have to yourself. Large crowds tend to show up around 10-11am.
Jump down to our Phi Phi Island section by clicking here.
Where To Stay In Krabi For Peace & Quiet
After visiting places like Koh Phi Phi or Railay Beach, you might be seeking some solitude. If that’s the case, head over to Ko Pu and Ko Jum for some time to disconnect.
If you’re needing some alone time or you simply can’t handle the fast pace of mainland Thailand, then seek shelter on these islands with peaceful mangrove forests and secluded beaches.
Jump down to our Ko Pu and Ko Jum section by clicking here.
Map Of The Best Places To Stay In Krabi
Below, we’ve created a map of the best places to stay in Krabi. Included on this map are the following towns, neighborhoods, and beaches:
1. Ao Nang
2. Railay Beach
3. Tonsai
4. Krabi Town
5. Phi Phi Island
6. Ko Lanta
7. Ko Pu & Ko Jum
Popular Areas To Stay In Krabi
Krabi is a large province in Thailand and you probably recognize it for its limestone cliffs jutting out of the emerald ocean.
With so many places to see and things to do, it can be difficult to accurately plan your trip based on your preferences. During my first trip to Krabi, I couldn’t figure out where to stay and we ended up staying in a location I wasn’t thrilled with.
So, I’m going to take the guesswork out of it for you and show you exactly where you need to stay in order to enjoy Krabi to the fullest.
Here are the 7 best places to stay in Krabi, Thailand:
1. Ao Nang
Ao Nang is one of the best places in Krabi for its location, accommodation options, and food.
For first-time Krabi visitors, Ao Nang is central to everything, which makes it the perfect place for day trips and water activities. Whether you want adventure or nice long beaches, you can have it all in Ao Nang.
Ao Nang Places To Stay
Ao Nang is the center of all the action in Krabi. With easy access to Tonsai and Railay Beaches and boat tours beginning at the Ao Nang Pier, it is a common place to stay for first-time Krabi visitors.
Here are the accommodation options in Ao Nang that we recommend:
Luxury
If you’re deciding where to stay in Ao Nang and you’re looking for luxury resorts, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s start with the Centara Ao Nang Beach & Spa Krabi. With all of the 5-star amenities you could want, you’d never suspect that this is only a 4-star resort.
Enjoy an amazing location with landscaped tropical gardens, air-conditioning, free WiFi, free breakfast, and very friendly staff at Centara Ao Nang Beach & Spa Krabi. You’ll pay between $150-350 per night depending on your room selection.
Note: Sometimes this resort can blast loud music. Don’t hesitate to ask them to turn it down.
Another luxe resort on the beach in Ao Nang is Centara Grand. Enjoy their watersports center, two jumbo outdoor pools, and live music during the day and cozy beds at night.
Expect to pay $200 per night for a garden view room and up to $1,300 per night for a two-bedroom beachfront villa.
Mid-Range
The best part about Thailand is that you can pay mid-range prices for some outstanding luxury hotels.
Let’s start with Ban Sainai Resort. We like this resort for its excellent views, infinity pool, and fitness center. The one thing we must mention is that this resort doesn’t sell alcohol on the property. Other resorts have a bar on-site.
At Ban Sainai Resort, you’ll typically pay prices around $50 for a deluxe king cottage to $229 for a family cottage.
If that resort doesn’t impress you, there are plenty of other places to stay in Ao Nang.
We recommend the Panan Krabi Resort Aonang. Enjoy their rooftop bar, a floating breakfast, and great mountain views. And if you want to splurge, get yourself a room with a whirlpool.
Prices range from $58 per night for a deluxe cliff view to $158 for a two-bedroom family suite.
Budget
Trying to stay on a budget? Well you’re in the right part of the world.
One of the best budget-friendly stays in Ao Nang is Monotel Krabi. Although you won’t have a swimming pool or a fitness room, you’ll still be close to the beach and your views of the mountain will be incredible.
For a double or twin room, expect to pay approximately $19. Upgrade to a deluxe quadruple room for $53. Both of these rooms include a flat-screen TV and free breakfast. This really is a great value stay.
Our other suggestion is the Sea Seeker Krabi Resort, which features a restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating area, a fitness center, a swimming pool, and exquisite guest rooms with luxury private bathrooms.
Prices range from $33 for a double or twin room to $91 for a deluxe room with pool access and private balcony. You can also get a package deal with breakfast included, so consider that before booking.
What To Do In Ao Nang
Pull out your Ao Nang itinerary and start adding in these awesome activities:
✔ Relax On The Beach
A visit to Ao Nang would be incomplete without some quality lounging time. Whether you want to hop in the ocean or just catch a nice tan, you’ll love this centrally-located beach.
Note: We recommend strolling down the beach in search of a quiet spot. This beach attracts a lot of tourists, especially near walking street. Check down the coast for a less-crowded area.
✔ Visit Boat Noodle
If you’re looking for the best Thai cuisine in Krabi, you can’t miss Boat Noodle. This is one of the most popular places to grab a bite, located directly on Walking Street near the night market. Here you’ll find cheap prices, friendly locals, and delicious food.
Try the pad see ew for a wide variety of flavors.. it’s our favorite!
✔ Watch The Sunset
There are plenty of places in Thailand to enjoy a spectacular sunset and Krabi is one of them.
Grab a cocktail at The Hilltop Ao Nang restaurant, head up to their rooftop bar for beautiful sea views and watch the sun sink below the horizon. The colors will light up the sky with streaks of red, orange, and purple.
Getting To Ao Nang
There are several ways to reach Ao Nang.
The easiest way is to fly into the nearest airport, Krabi International Airport*. From Krabi Airport, you can take a taxi for about 600-700 baht, a private van (split price), or a bus for about 150 baht one-way.
* Don’t be fooled. Although it’s an international airport, it is teeny tiny!
You can also reach Ao Nang by bus from Chiang Mai or Bangkok. We don’t necessarily recommend this option since it takes 10 hours and will cost relatively the same amount as the airplane.
And the final way to reach Ao Nang is by boat. There are several locations (Phuket, Phi Phi Island, etc.) that have ferries to Ao Nang. Depending on where you leave from, a ferry can cost anywhere from 500-1000 baht per person one-way.
2. Railay Beach
Another good place to stay in Krabi is the renowned Railay Beach.
If you’re looking for long-tail boats, caves, and limestone cliffs, this is the place to be. Ultimately, it’s an adventurer’s dream destination. Book your stay on Railay Beach and enjoy peaceful mornings to yourself before the tourists show up.
Railay Beach Places To Stay
There are plenty of places to stay on Railay Beach and the best part is that there are accommodation options for all budgets.
Here are a few places we recommend for your stay on Railay Beach:
Luxury
Looking for a luxury 5-star hotel in Krabi? Rayavadee is exactly what you’re looking for as it has all the amenities you could dream of: a full-service spa, four restaurants, beachfront accommodation, and an incredible breakfast each morning.
Expect to pay about $350 for a deluxe pavillion. Or you can splurge and go for their private pool pavilions for about $700 per night.
Mid-Range
With plenty of mid-range accommodation options to choose from on Railay Beach, it can be difficult to pick the best. Luckily, we know two really awesome resorts that offer a ton of value for the price.
First is the Bhu Nga Thani Resort. You’ll find this resort close to the pier, which makes it easy to move around the area. This resort also includes a fitness center, a pool, and great breakfast each morning.
It’s also within a short walk’s distance to all places in the Railay Beach area.
For a double or twin room, you’ll pay about $50 per night. Upgrade to a pool villa for $126 per night.
The other resort we recommend is the Avatar Railay Resort. For just $26, enjoy a double or twin room or you can splurge and book a pool suite for $72 per night.
At the Avatar Railay Resort, they provide a good buffet breakfast each morning (included in the price), a swimming pool, and very cozy beds. Comfortable beds can be hard to come by in Southeast Asia, so eat your heart out at this resort!
Budget
Even budget options on Railay Beach are high-quality and offer various facilities, so don’t hesitate to go cheap on this location.
The Railay Garden View Resort is a group of hillside bungalows about a 15-minute walk from Phra Nang Beach. They offer fan rooms (no a/c, sorry!), incredible ocean views, and tranquility.
Unlike other areas in Railay, this resort is far enough away to enjoy some quiet time, but close enough to walk everywhere.
Garden-view bungalows start at $20 per night and their rates increase to over $40 per night for a triple bungalow.
Note: Breakfast is not included at Railay Garden View Resort, but you can pay $5 for daily breakfast.
For an even cheaper option, check out Blanco Hideout Railay.
You’ll pay about $5 per night for a mixed bed dorm and prices increase to $19 per night for a double room with a sea view.
Blanco Hideout Railay has a gorgeous swimming pool, two bars, and an on-site restaurant. It is a great place for backpackers because it’s really easy to meet fellow travelers here.
What To Do In Railay Beach
✔ Deep Water Soloing
If you’ve never heard of deep water soloing before, check it out on Youtube.
Basically, it’s the most extreme sport you could imagine. Rock climbers venture up Railay’s limestone cliffs without harnesses or ropes. If you fall, you’ll plunge into the ocean below. You can find out more information about tours at Basecamp Tonsai.
✔ Visit Phra Nang Cave
This is an interesting one, but it would be wrong to talk about Railay without mentioning Phra Nang Cave.
It’s one of the top things to see while visiting Railay and you’ll soon find out why. Filled with a specific male body part, this cave is as unique as they come.
✔ Go Cave Kayaking
Another awesome thing to do during your stay in Railay Bay is to go kayaking. With limestone cliffs surrounding the bay, you’ll be able to weave in and out of these spires with your kayak for the most insane views.
There are also many caves in the Railay area and you can easily take your kayak to visit them.
Getting To Railay Beach
Since they are located just down the coast from one another, getting to Railay Beach is nearly the same process as getting to Ao Nang.
From the international airport, you can take a taxi, bus or shuttle service, depending on your preference. You’ll likely pay 600-700 baht for a taxi and 150 baht for the bus.
Note: The bus takes much longer than a taxi ride, which is why the prices are so different.
You can also reach Railay Beach from Ao Nang via speedboat. There are boats between these locations periodically throughout the day and you can expect to pay about 150 baht for a one-way ride.
3. Tonsai
Pack up your climbing gear because Tonsai is another one of the best places to stay in Krabi, Thailand.
Located 20 minutes from Ao Nang on foot, you’ll find this hidden oasis that flies under the radar in comparison to Ao Nang or Railay Beach.
Gawk at the limestone cliffs surrounding you on every side and the aquamarine glow of the ocean while you sip a cocktail and watch the sunset.
Tonsai Places To Stay
With very few accommodation options on this small beach in Krabi, you’ll want to book your stay early. This is where we recommend staying:
Mid-Range/Budget
Overall, the best place to stay is the Tinidee Hideway Tonsai Beach. This 3-star hotel offers air conditioned rooms, a scenic swimming pool, and the most delicious cafe.
Dorm room beds start at $19 per night and prices increase all the way to $82 per night for a beachfront villa.
What To Do In Tonsai
Tonsai has two different vibes: an outdoor-lovers paradise and a relaxed beach-goers wonderland. Here are the best things to do in Tonsai:
✔ Rock Climb
Tonsai attracts mainly rock climbers since it is one of the best places in Thailand to scale limestone cliffs. Pack your climbing gear because you’ll find mind-blowing routes just footsteps from your hotel.
✔ Grab A Drink Oceanside
There’s nothing quite as amazing as sipping a cocktail on a tranquil Thailand beach and Tonsai is the perfect place for it. This is especially true after the crowds leave in the evening because you’ll likely have the beach to yourself.
✔ Do Yoga On The Beach
What’s more peaceful than yoga on the beach?
Whether you sign up for a class on the beach or you lay out a towel during sunset, you’ll have the most relaxed time practicing yoga.
Getting To Tonsai
Getting to Tonsai is a bit more complicated than Ao Nang or Railay Beach.
From the Krabi International Airport, take a taxi to the Ao Nang Pier or the Railay Pier. From either of these locations, take a speedboat over to Tonsai. For both the taxi and the boat ride, you’ll pay approximately 750 to 850 baht.
A few other transportation options include kayaking or walking during low tide.
However, if you plan to stay on Tonsai Beach, it’s best to take the speedboat with all of your luggage.
4. Krabi Town
A unique place to stay in the Krabi province is the quaint little town by the name of Krabi.
Krabi Town is set back from the beaches and has a stronger cultural vibe than most other places in this area.
You’ll be close enough to reach all of Krabi’s well-known beaches like Ao Nang and Railay via a short distance by car or motorbike. And you’ll be close enough to the pier so that you can easily reach islands like Ko Lanta and Koh Phi Phi.
But the best part about Krabi Town is that it is typically quieter and cheaper than the other tourist-driven areas.
Krabi Town Places To Stay
Krabi Town is known for being a common stop along the backpacker’s trail. Here are the accommodation options that we suggest checking out:
Mid-Range
Perhaps you aren’t a budget traveler. No problem! There are plenty of mid-range hotel and accommodation options in this town, but none quite compare to The Brown Hotel Krabi.
This 3-star hotel is equipped with air-conditioned modern rooms and friendly staff. It’s also in a very central location making it easy to go places.
Expect to pay about $40 for a twin room and prices increase from there. $74 per night will get you a triple room with a balcony and breakfast. Not a bad deal, eh?
Budget
Krabi Town has plenty of affordable places to stay including Lada Krabi Express and City Hotel.
Lada Krabi Express is a 2-star hotel that features air-conditioned rooms and a central location. Prices are typically $23 per night for a double or twin room or upgrade to a family room for $38 per night.
City Hotel is also a budget hotel that is centrally located with easy access to Noppharat and Klong Muang Beaches. You’ll pay $24 for a double room and $60 for a family room. Breakfast is included if you are staying in a family room.
Note: There are many hostels in Krabi Town that have even cheaper prices. We just believe these places offer the best value.
Any Hotels With A Pool?
The one thing that the majority of hotels in Krabi Town are lacking is a pool.
But at Krabi Seabass Hotel, you won’t be missing out. If you’re looking for a boutique hotel in Krabi Town with a pool, this is the one to book.
What To Do In Krabi Town
Since Krabi Town is about 30 minutes from the nearest beach, you might be curious about activities in the area. Here are the best things to do while visiting Krabi Town:
✔ Visit The Tiger Cave Temple
Sure, you’ll need to lace up your tennis shoes for stairs, stairs, and more stairs, but the view from the top of Tiger Cave Temple is unforgettable.
Not only is the landscape iconic, but you’ll get a front row view of the temple and the giant Buddha that sit at the top. In Krabi Town, you’ll be 7 kilometers from Tiger Cave Temple, so add this to your itinerary.
✔ Take A Cooking Class
Thailand is one of the best places in the world for delicious cuisine. And what better way to remember your time in Southeast Asia than by taking a cooking class?
During your cooking class, you’ll be making several different dishes of your choice. Take these skills with you when you return home and continue to enjoy Thailand from afar.
✔ Take Day Trips
Krabi Town is also a fantastic place to stay if you’re looking to take day trips. This will allow you to see some of the most beautiful beaches and islands while still being able to leave if the crowds become overwhelming.
Take a day trip to Railay Beach, Tonsai, or any of the nearby islands.
Getting To Krabi Town
Krabi Town is the easiest to get to considering it is only 15 kilometers from the airport.
Taxi and bus rides will be considerably cheaper than if you were to continue to Ao Nang or Railay Beach.
5. Phi Phi Island
Arguably the most beautiful island in Thailand, Koh Phi Phi is any person’s dream destination… if it weren’t for the loud parties.
But, if you can get past the noise and drunken shenanigans, you might just enjoy this island paradise.
Phi Phi Island Places To Stay
Koh Phi Phi is a diverse island, not only for its landscapes but because it can cater to all types of travelers. Here are the best luxury, mid-range, and budget stays on Phi Phi Island:
Luxury
Above all, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is the best accommodation option on the island.
SAii Phi Phi Island Village boasts a private beach, an infinity pool with a pool bar, a dive center, tennis courts and four different restaurants. Whatever your needs, SAii Phi Phi Island Village will deliver.
For this high-quality resort, you’ll pay $144 for a garden bungalow and up to $541 for a two-bedroom family bungalow.
Mid-Range
If you aren’t ready to splurge, sit back and relax at Phi Phi The Beach Resort or Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort.
Phi Phi The Beach Resort lines the shores with hillside bungalows. With the most incredible views, a pool, and a buffet breakfast, this is the perfect location to spend your trip.
This hotel costs $91 for a superior villa.
Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort is within close range of several beaches and restaurants. You’ll also get a spectacular view from this location and prices tend to be a lot cheaper.
You’ll pay around $37 for a double room and $64 for a luxury sea view twin with a pool.
Budget
Looking for something a bit cheaper? Consider PP Insula Hotel, a 2-star hotel located near Tonsai Pier. Meet the friendliest staff at this hotel and enjoy some peace and quiet on an island that is anything but!
PP Insula Hotel costs $31 for a double or twin room.
What To Do On Phi Phi Island
I couldn’t even come close to talking about all of the fun activities to do on Phi Phi Island but I can give you a rundown of a few of the best:
✔ Hike To The Phi Phi Viewpoint
45 minutes before sunset, start your journey to the top of Koh Phi Phi to the Phi Phi Viewpoint. Although you’ll be joined by loads of random strangers, you’ll be dazzled by the sun setting over the island.
The hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint is approximately 1.1 miles roundtrip.
✔ Go Cliff Jumping
This is what I was most excited about when I heard about Koh Phi Phi. Cliff jumping, although scary, is one of the best things you can do anywhere in the world.
On the island of Koh Phi Phi, you can actually take a cliff jumping excursion tour and dive from limestone cliffs into the turquoise waters.
Note: You can book all of your tours when you get on the island.
✔ Take A Long-Tail Boat Out To Koh Phi Phi Leh
A trip to the Phi Phi Islands would be incomplete without a visit to the coveted Koh Phi Phi Leh. The smaller sister of Koh Phi Phi Don is home to some of the best dive locations and beaches in Thailand.
Depending on how many people are in your group and how good your bargaining skills are, a half-day trip will cost anywhere from 600 to 1000 baht.
For even more suggestions on what to do on Phi Phi Island, check out our post: 19 Incredible Things To Do In Koh Phi Phi Island.
Getting To Phi Phi Island
The two most common routes to Phi Phi Island are via Ao Nang and via Phuket.
Both Ao Nang and Phuket are about 2-3 hours away and prices range from 350-600 baht one-way.
6. Ko Lanta
Imagine a quiet island with jaw-dropping sunsets and white sand beaches. That is Ko Lanta to a T.
Located approximately 2.5-3 hours by bus from the Krabi airport, it may seem like a long journey but it’s well worth it.
Now you might be thinking, “isn’t Koh Lanta an island? Don’t we need to take a boat?”
And you’re right, you do need to take a boat! From the Krabi Pier to the Ko Lanta Pier, you will take a car ferry, which means you don’t have to worry about transferring from bus to boat.
Ko Lanta Places To Stay
If you plan on staying in Ko Lanta, you’ll want to choose the perfect resort, hotel, or hostel. Here’s what we suggest:
Luxury
If you want all of the fancy frills like a spa, an infinity pool, jacuzzis, and daily room service, check out Layana Resort & Spa, one of the best hotels in Ko Lanta. With ocean views, a fitness center, and included (exceptional) breakfast, what else could you want?
Prices start at $149 for more basic rooms and increase in price from there.
Mid-Range
Mid-range accommodations are readily available on Ko Lanta. I would start by looking into these top-rated Krabi hotels:
The first hotel we recommend is The Houben Hotel, an adults only resort. This means you won’t have little kids running around. You can also enjoy the infinity pool without splashing and screaming.
Rates start at $63 and increase from there depending on your room preferences.
Another fantastic option is Lanta Casa Blanca. This is an affordable 4-star hotel with a private beach, outdoor swimming pool, and restaurant.
The best part about the Lanta Casa Blanca is the view during sunset. Ko Lanta is known for its sunsets so its best to stay somewhere you can enjoy them every night.
Villas without a view start at $59 per night while beachfront villas cost around $104.
Budget
Unlike other popular islands in Thailand, budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels are easy to find.
The guesthouse that we strongly suggest looking into is Sweet Life Community Guesthouse.
This unique guesthouse is located in a fisherman village, so you’ll have the opportunity to experience local life. Be sure to sign up for the cooking class at this guesthouse, too. It’s a wonderful experience.
Double rooms start at around $11 and family rooms cost approximately $16.
What To Do On Ko Lanta
Typically known as the quiet and laidback Thai island, Ko Lanta has many different activities to participate in.
Here are the top three things to do during your stay:
✔ Walk Along The Beach
During certain seasons, Ko Lanta boasts some of the best beaches in the country.
Spend some time strolling along the beach. Walking the beach at sunset is particularly awesome because as I mentioned before, Ko Lanta sunsets are epic.
✔ Get A Massage
What’s more relaxing than a massage? How about a 5-dollar massage on the beach?
If you’ve spent anytime in Thailand, you know how cheap and awesome massages can be and in Ko Lanta, things are no different.
✔ Go Snorkeling
Unlike Railay and Ao Nang, the island of Ko Lanta has some pretty great snorkeling spots.
Sign up for a snorkeling tour or rent some gear and go out on your own to discover the hidden beauty beneath the Andaman Sea.
Note: We always recommend snorkeling with a partner. Snorkeling alone is dangerous and could put you at risk.
Getting To Ko Lanta
Ko Lanta is located just south of the Krabi International Airport. To reach Ko Lanta, you’ll take a 2.5-3 hour bus ride to the Ko Lanta Pier where you’ll catch a ferry across to the island.
You can also reach Ko Lanta by boat from most of the piers around the Krabi area including Ao Nang and Railay, however, it is considerably cheaper to travel by bus.
From Ao Nang to Ko Lanta by bus, you can expect to pay about 400-500 baht per person (one way).
7. Ko Pu & Ko Jum
This hidden gem in Krabi is one of the last off-the-beaten-path locations in the province.
Ko Pu and Ko Jum are island getaways that will help you disconnect, unwind, and escape the fast pace of the more popular areas.
Unlike Phi Phi Island or Railay Beach, you won’t be disrupted by crazy beach parties full of 20-something backpackers. Instead, you can sip on a cocktail and just enjoy the silence.
While planning your trip to Ko Pu and Ko Jum, take the following information into consideration:
Ko Pu & Ko Jum Places To Stay
Due to its remote location, Ko Pu and Ko Jum don’t have many accommodation options, but they do have a few that can work for all budgets.
Here are the three places we recommend looking into when planning your trip to Krabi:
Luxury
If luxury is what you’re looking for, Koh Jum Beach Villas might be right up your alley. This beachfront resort and spa offers a pool, a restaurant, a well-equipped fitness center, and daily breakfast.
Prices range from $233 for a deluxe villa and up to $626 for a five bedroom beach villa.
Mid-Range
If $200+ seems like a lot to you (don’t worry, it’s a lot for us, too), then we recommend the Koh Jum Ocean Beach Resort. For significantly less than Koh Jum Beach Villas, you’ll still get to enjoy a private beach, a swimming pool, a bar and restaurant, and daily breakfast.
The staff at Koh Jum Ocean Beach Resort go above and beyond for their guests, which makes staying here even more enjoyable.
For about $46 per night, you can book an ocean view cottage or you can pay a little more ($128) for a seaview family villa.
Budget
To save even more money, consider the Rock View Terrace. You may not get to splash around in a pool, but you will have direct access to the beach.
You also love that there’s a restaurant and bar on-site, which makes things a lot easier.
At the Rock View Terrace, you’ll pay approximately $13 for a double room and $53 for a family room.
What To Do On Ko Pu & Ko Jum
Being an off-the-beaten-path location, Ko Pu And Ko Jum don’t have loads of tour companies waiting to sweep you away. Instead, you’ll find a tranquil paradise perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
Here are some activities you should add to your Ko Pu and Ko Jum itinerary:
✔ Do Nothing
As I mentioned, Ko Pu and Ko Jum are hidden gems among the hustle and bustle of southern Thailand. Go here to escape the crowds and ultimately, do nothing.
Whether you’re walking along the beach or watching the sunset, there are plenty of ways to disconnect from the world.
✔ Hike Up Ko Pu Mountain
One of the best things to do on Ko Pu is hike up Ko Pu Mountain. It’s best to hire a guide or ask your accommodation hosts for advice since it isn’t a very well-trodden path.
But once you reach the top, you’ll see exactly why it’s one of the best things to do on the island.
✔ Go Snorkeling
Similar to Ko Lanta, Ko Pu and Ko Jum are far enough away from the craziness of Ao Nang and Railay that coral reefs can still thrive.
Spend time exploring under the sea on this remote island destiantion.
Getting To Ko Pu & Ko Jum
Ko Pu and Ko Jum are only accessible by boat, but the good news is that you can reach this island from many locations like Phuket, Railay Pier, and Koh Phi Phi.
Enquire with your hotel before you depart so that you can get an accurate timetable for the ferries that service Ko Pu and Ko Jum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Krabi
I’m sure I’ve missed some of your most important questions about visiting Krabi, so I wanted to address them here:
1. Is It Worth Staying In Krabi?
Absolutely! Krabi province is one of the most stunning places in Thailand.
Skip the disgusting beaches of Phuket and jet on over to Krabi to experience Thailand’s famous limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, and gorgeous bays. Views like the ones found in Krabi cannot be found elsewhere in Thailand, so it’s a must-see.
2. How Long Should I Stay In Krabi?
Depending on your preference and itinerary, we recommend spending at least 5 days in Krabi. This will allow you to visit all of the surrounding areas, including Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and Ko Phi Phi.
If you’re an outdoorsman and you thoroughly enjoy water sports or climbing, we suggest staying in Krabi for at least a week.
Note: If you have Phuket on your itinerary, TAKE IT OFF. Phuket may have been a nice place to visit many years ago, but it is no longer the island paradise that people think it is. Trust me on this one.
You can read more about why Phuket is the worst place to visit in Thailand here: Is Thailand Overrated? 4 Disgusting Places To Avoid.
3. Getting Around In Krabi
The easiest way to get anywhere in Thailand is via motorbike. This will give you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
Motorbike rentals are readily available. If you cannot find a motorbike rental shop on the main street, simply ask your hotel or host to connect you with a rental.
If you have never driven a motorbike before, we don’t necessarily recommend learning in Thailand. Traffic is crazy and the rules of the road are much different than the western world.
However, Krabi seems to be a lot less busy than Bangkok and Chiang Mai, so learning how to ride a motorbike on a few backstreets might be a good option.
A few other transportation options to consider during your stay in Krabi are taxis, buses, and long-tail boats.
Note: Download the Grab app during your stay in Thailand. It’s the easiest way to hail a reasonably-priced taxi.
The Wrap-Up: Where To Stay In Krabi
Overall, we believe the Ao Nang neighborhood is the best place to stay during your trip to Krabi.
Ao Nang’s central location allows you to visit all of the nearby areas mentioned in our guide above, which is perfect for first-time Krabi visitors and returning travelers.
Krabi is one of Thailand’s most beautiful provinces and we highly recommend exploring it far and wide.
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